It is never easy to pack up and move; the emotions that slip into each suitcase, plastic bin, and aged box hold a lifetime of memories. When the choices are limited and feel like they’re less than our own, the mix of gratitude and hesitation is palpable.
Establishing resettlement homes for refugee families has groomed me in efficiently sorting and packing the needs from the wants. But this past month, I helped a friend move. This was different.
Not only did I know the person, but living independently was no longer an option, as the need for support has grown.
As each shelf emptied, another bin filled…, I thought about the many whom this individual had ministered to. It was clear to me how life comes full circle on so many levels.
In some cases, it felt like things were being taken away. In reality, the efforts of those who saw the whole person were re-establishing an environment of support and community.
I re-learned a few lessons through this. Nothing earthshattering, but certainly worth pondering.
What is in the boxes we treasure? Are they treasures I still need or is it time for another to be blessed by their worth?
And what most brings security and serenity… surely it is not the contents of a room… but the presence of another, who sees you.
